WARNING: This story contains distressing images.
Two feral pig hunters have been fined a combined $52,000 after being convicted of animal cruelty in the Bunbury Magistrates Court this week.
Riley Thomas Lang, 26, and Marie Ann Parker, 23, both from the South West, used their dogs to attack, torment, abuse, and bring down feral pigs in an unnecessarily cruel manner.
They also released feral pigs for the purpose of hunting them down, which is a prohibited activity, and promoted it by posting videos on social media.
PIC: RSPCA WA
An investigation was launched into the couple after social media videos were brought to the attention of RSPCA WA in August 2022.
While pig hunting in WA is not illegal, RSPCA WA argued the way the pair engaged in the practice was in breach of the Animal Welfare Act 2002.
“There is a distinction between lawful pig hunting and pig hunting not conducted in a humane fashion. The eradication of the pig was delayed for (the) gratification of its captors … it was deliberate, intentional and planned to ensure maximum impact for their audience," Magistrate Joanne Andretich said.
RSPCA WA Team Leader Inspector Genna Haines said the deliberate cruelty seen in the videos was shocking.
“This was not a case against people legally hunting pigs as a form of pest control,” Inspector Haines said.
“This was about the illegal way the so-called hunting took place, where already trapped, injured and terrified pigs were held down while dogs were actively encouraged to continue to attack them.
“The pigs suffered prolonged distress while the offenders filmed content for social media, and in many instances the offenders can be heard laughing on the videos.
“None of these actions constitute responsible hunting for pest control and frankly, how anyone can watch and listen to an animal suffering the way the pigs were in the video is beyond me."
Lang was fined $33,000, $10,000 of which was suspended while Parker was fined $19,000, $10,000 of which was also suspended.
Both offenders had their convictions spent.
The RSPCA relies on the community to report incidents of suspected cruelty and neglect.
Report cruelty 24/7 on 1300 CRUELTY (1300 278 358) or at rspcawa.org.au
PIC: RSPCA WA
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